Verb groups

Did you notice when we were listing the different modalities, they were all framed as how likely, how obliged, how able? We can choose our modal verbs to fine tune degrees of modality.

For example, let's look at the mode of probability. How likely is the action in this snippet?

Here the word must gives a high degree of probability. According to the speaker, it's almost certain that it's their dog.

What would communicate a low degree of probability?

Write some sentences of your own, and include a note about both the mode and the degree.

The easiest way to do this is to first choose a modal verb at random: can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, and would.

Then choose a mode: likelihood, necessity, obligation, inclination, and ability.

And then see what you can make with your chosen verb. If the pairing doesn't seem to work, try a different combination until you get something.

For instance, you might choose would + ability. Can we make an ability statement with that combination? How about: "I would never be able to eat a dozen hot dogs." (ability, low degree)

Again, if you want more ideas, check this page of modal examples and links.